What is the primary focus of the Social Security Act?

The primary focus of the Social Security Act is to provide financial support primarily through retirement benefits, but also includes disability benefits and survivor benefits for the deceased workers' families. The Act was established during the Great Depression to help ensure economic security for the elderly and other vulnerable populations. It serves as a social insurance program, ensuring that individuals who have contributed to the workforce have a safety net in their later years or in times of hardship.

While healthcare program requirements have become a significant aspect of social welfare in recent policies, particularly with the introduction of Medicare and Medicaid, the Social Security Act itself was specifically designed to address retirement and related benefits rather than healthcare mandates. Therefore, the focus remains on providing economic stability through financial support for retirees, making retirement benefits the core purpose of the act.

This context clarifies why the other options, such as economic stimulation, small business loans, and broad healthcare program requirements, do not accurately capture the intent and primary focus of the Social Security Act.